Ashton Carter’s candor on national security matters creates headaches for Obama

[Geee]

Washington Times:

Defense Secretary Ashton Carter’s honesty on matters of national security is causing headaches for the White House, but lawmakers on Capitol Hill like his willingness to dig into controversial issues publicly — unlike previous defense secretaries who voiced their frustration with the administration only after leaving office.

 

Mr. Carter has questioned the administration’s strategy in dealing with the Islamic State, also known as ISIL and ISIS, making candid remarks last month when he publicly questioned the ability and drive of the Iraqi forces. Arming and training Iraqi forces is the centerpiece of President Obama’s strategy in the Middle East as the administration remains resolute in not committing U.S. boots on the ground despite the deteriorating situation.

 

In addition to losing Mosul last year, the Iraqi forces gave up Ramadi last month.